A new Hungarian immigration law, published January 1, 2024, introduced major changes and stricter conditions to existing regulations for third-country nationals (TCNs). The application of the new regulations began on March 1, 2024.
Key Changes & Dates
- Pending implementation, the submission of new applications from TCNs was suspended, except those involving residence permits ‘of national interest’ based on ministerial approval.
- In cases where an application was submitted before December 31, 2023, the old regulations still apply.
- The validity of residence permits and permanent residence permits expiring between January 1, 2024, and February 29, 2024 was automatically extended until April 30, 2024.
Permit Changes
The previous immigration law in Hungary specified 18 types of residence permits. The new regulation outlines 24 types, including 8 for the purpose of employment.
- The residence permit for other purposes (known as the single permit) has been abolished;
- The new law introduces separate categories of work permits for highly-skilled workers (“Hungarian Card”), guest workers, posted workers, Serbian and Ukrainian nationals (“National Card”) and investors.
The guest worker residence permit will only be granted, by law, to those employed by specified employers, from specified countries, and in specified occupations.
- Moreover, the guest worker permit can only be extended for a limited period, up to a total of three years.
- After this period the permit cannot be extended, and a new application must be submitted.
- Guest workers, therefore, are not entitled to permanent residence in Hungary, or to family reunification.
The new law also introduces a so-called “golden visa.” From July 1, 2024, the guest-investor visa and residence permit will be available, allowing a residence of 10+10 years for a minimum real estate fund investment of 250,000 EUR. The detailed provisions for this have not yet been published.
Effective January 1, 2025, certain residence permits can only be extended if the relevant applicant fulfils the conditions of ‘social coexistence,’ which must be proved by taking an exam in Hungarian about Hungarian history and culture.
The law also introduces a shorter validity for entry visas issued for the collection of residence permits, and stricter notification rules.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.